Here’s one way to find a niche big enough for income and small enough to become a major player, quickly. What expertise or service would remove the thorn in the side of just one department or function?

Instead of thinking in terms of solving a swath of problems for a whole department, consider a single pain point. So, instead of positioning your encore career as a supply chain consultant, slice the possibilities into you-sized bites: would you rather work on supply chain strategy or become a negotiations coach for supply chain executives?

Your goal is to get to cruising altitude quickly and efficiently. When you believe you have the right angle, offer to lead a committee or research project on that topic for an industry group. You will vet your concept while cementing connections that you just might convert to clients.